Now it's Boston's turn to celebrate

Red Sox clinch playoff spot for third straight year

Published 5:30 am, Monday, October 3, 2005

BOSTON - The champagne had a brief wait and a short trip after the New York Yankees clinched the AL East at Fenway Park.

A day later, across the diamond, the Boston Red Sox joined their longtime rivals in the playoffs.

"Both of these teams went through a lot this year," said Curt Schilling, who shut the Yankees down long enough for the Red Sox to win 10-1 on Sunday and grab the AL wild-card berth. "To be where we are says as much about the people as it does about the talent."

New York's loss meant it will start the postseason Tuesday in Anaheim rather than at home against the Los Angeles Angels.

Schilling (8-8) held the Yankees scoreless for five innings; by that time, the Cleveland Indians had already lost 3-1 to the Chicago White Sox and assured Boston the AL's last playoff spot. The outfield message boards posted matching congratulations — one for the Red Sox and one for the Yankees, who celebrated in Fenway Park's visitors' clubhouse on Saturday after clinching the AL East.

"That's got to be a first, huh?" Jeter said. "Two teams playing each other, clinching in the same stadium."

The Red Sox and Yankees each finished the year 95-67, but the Yankees actually took the division title because they beat the Red Sox 10-9 in the season series.

"Co-division champs. That's what I'm calling it," Red Sox owner John Henry said. "I can understand why there isn't (a playoff), but frankly, I would have liked to have had one. It would have been nice to settle the division championship."

The Angels also finished 95-67 and earned the home-field advantage against the Yankees because they won the season series 6-4.